South Africa have opened up a 17-6 lead over Samoa in the first half of their second match at the Rugby World Cup, as they look for their first win of the tournament at Villa Park.
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The Springboks were able to settle their nerves just moments after kickoff as Victor Matfield forced a penalty, allowing Handrie Pollard to open the scoring in front of a largely South Africa-supporting crowd.
Samoa started to find their way into the match, with Michael Stanley adding a pair of penalties to leave South Africa trailing again, while forcing a lineout in a promising position.
JP Pietersen popped up to intercept the ball as Samoa tried to make the most of their set piece, running it all the way back for the opening try of the match, leaving his opponents behind with pace to spare.
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Although Pollard missed the resulting conversion, the fly-half was on target with his next two penalties to ensure that South Africa kept the score moving - something Japan managed with great effect last weekend against the Springboks.
Samoa started to look dangerous again before the two-time champions charged back down the other end, but Willie Le Roux had a foot in touch as he tried to run it over.
Things started to get a little heated as half time approached, with the players clashing following a maul as Samoa continually stuttered in South Africa territory.
Schalk Berger tried to force his way over shortly before the break, but South Africa had to settle for another penalty, ensuring that they hold an 11-point lead at the break.
Sian Cowper
